What is the qualification for Indian Foreign Service?

The Indian Foreign Service is categorized under Group A and Group B of the civil services. These officials are responsible for looking after foreign trade along with some of the country’s important parts of the international territory. The execution of work done by the IFS officers is modified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, the primary goal of the IFS officers is to directly get involved in foreign-related issues in India for effective and better communication. This article will guide you about the Indian Foreign service exam and everything about IFS.

Eligibility and criteria

Nationality:

To be eligible for IFS officer, there are certain criteria an individual needs to qualify. Apart from physical fitness, there are certain criteria that an individual needs to qualify to be eligible as an IFS officer.

• He/She must be a citizen of India
• Must be a subject of Nepal and Bhutan
• A Tibetan Refugee in India as a permanent resident (until January 01, 1962)
• The candidates in B, C, D, and E categories must have a certificate proof of eligibility which the GOI should issue. An offer of appointment/recruitment will be issued only on submitting the eligibility certificate copy.

Age Limit

For a person to be eligible for Indian Foreign Service_ he /she must be a minimum of 21 years of age and a maximum of 30 years of age in the year of examination.

While sitting for the examination, the candidate must qualify for the age barrier 21 years and should not be more than 29 years of age. The above age category is for the General Category candidates. However, there is a certain relaxation of age for SC, ST, and OBC candidates.

SC and ST candidates have an age relaxation of up to 35 years. However, OBC candidates have an age relaxation of up to 33 years. In addition, special provisions are given to Jammu and Kashmir candidates as they enjoy an age relaxation up to 35 years of age. However, a certain condition is attached to this provision– the candidate must have stayed there from January 1980 to December 1989.

Other required skills

• Good communication skills are required
• In depth knowledge of foreign affairs is required
• The candidate must have exceptional leadership capability
• The candidate must be aware of current affairs of foreign cultures.

Roles and Responsibilities

There are certain roles and responsibilities that an IFS officer needs to carry out diligently. Ideally, an IFS officer must be able to deal with all foreign affairs and understand the decorum of the embassy. In addition, they must be able to consult higher commissions and other multilateral organizations.

Since an IFS officer is the country’s representative, they must be well-equipped and updated about current news around the globe and the country. In addition, an IFS officer is liable for international relations and the country’s economy.

Summing it up

An IFS officer is a well-respected post, and a candidate is required to make designated efforts to reach that place. To successfully become an IFS officer, a person must undergo an Indian foreign service exam and qualify for it.

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